Large Animal Handling Facility Technician
Farm Animal Health & Production Group
Exciting Opportunity in Large Animal Handling at The Royal Veterinary College
We have an exciting opportunity in the Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences (PPS) for a Large Animal Handling Facility Technician to join our team. Competence in animal management, handling, and the smooth running of teaching facilities underpins our ability to produce capable veterinary graduates. For this reason, we are looking to recruit a technician who can play a vital role in supporting the delivery of large animal pre-clinical and clinical skills teaching. The successful applicant will be an essential member of the team responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and effective operation of the Large Animal Handling Facility (LAHF) and will work closely with the animals, academic staff, farm staff, and students.
A primary focus of this role will be the day-to-day care of the teaching animals, including the equine teaching herd, as well as the organization and upkeep of the new LAHF under the current manager, situated at the RVC Boltons Park Farm. This recently completed state-of-the-art facility includes ‘wet lab’ teaching spaces, classrooms, a student common room, staff office, and a modular open barn area for large live animal teaching. Alongside supporting staff and students in animal handling, the successful applicant will help maintain interactive models, organize storage and teaching areas, and ensure that the facility is well prepared for regular use.
While the position is predominantly farm-animal based, the ideal candidate should also be confident handling horses when required. You will liaise closely with farm staff, teaching colleagues, and students to ensure the facility and animals are cared for to the highest standards.
We are looking to recruit a candidate with proven experience in large animal handling and management, ideally with both farm, livestock, and equine experience. Previous experience in an educational, farm, or veterinary environment would be an advantage. The position will be based at the RVC Campuses in Hertfordshire (Hawkshead Campus and Bolton’s Park Farm) but may occasionally involve supporting activities at other sites.
Ideally, we are looking to fill this role with a full-time employee, but part-time or job-share arrangements may be considered for the right candidate(s). The salary for this position sits within Grade 3 to 4 on the RVC salary scale, which ranges from £29, to £35, including London Weighting. The starting salary will be commensurate with experience.
We offer a generous reward package and benefits including:
1. Competitive and attractive pension package
2. A range of family friendly policies, including adoption, maternity and paternity pay and leave
3. On site café and restaurant
4. Free membership to the newly built Fitness and Wellbeing Centre located on site (gym, badminton, climbing wall, Zumba, yoga and Pilates classes included)
5. Cycle to work scheme
6. Free mini-bus service to and from Potters Bar station and Hawkshead Campus
Prospective applicants wishing to discuss this position informally are encouraged to contact the Manager of the Large Animal Handling Facility, Emilie Charles, on or Email: .